The Miniature Schnauzer is fast becoming one of the favorite small dog breeds for families. The most noticeable feature of these cute dogs is the mustache, along with their long shaggy coat.
The Schnauzer is a ball of energy. Smart as they are, they’re easy to train and enjoy lively games. Just come up with a game idea, and they go all in. What makes them ideal as a family dog? They’re friendly, loyal, and have a warm personality.
There’s no dull day with this dog breed in your house. These pups get along with both adults and children. They are happiest when around the family. They’ll always be at your feet, hopping along after you—talk of a constant companion! Remember to provide them with enough exercise so they can burn off some energy. When well engaged, the Schnauzer is one of the best dogs that you can have.
Miniature Schnauzer Dog Breed Pictures
Appearance
What Does A Miniature Schnauzer Look Like?
The Schnauzer breed has a notable square body shape. The head and mouth have a boxy build while the ears droop over the head. Their height ranges from 28 to 36 cm. Unlike many dogs, they have a double coat. The outer fur is rough and shaggy, while a softer coat lies underneath. The coat colors range from white, black, grey, silver, or a combination of them.
The fur grows fast and calls for constant trimming. Normally, the fur on the body is cut short, while that on the belly, legs, and face is left long. Even with the two coats, shedding is minimal and hardly noticeable. This makes the Miniature Schnauzer hypoallergenic and safe for people with allergy issues.
Temperament
Do you know what Schnauzers and toddlers have in common? They follow you everywhere! Goodbye, personal space; it was nice having you! Some dog breeds are happy to sit back and watch you go around your business. The Schnauzer is not one of them. Expect the pup at your heel or on your lap all the time. While this can get a little annoying, following you around means that you’ve earned their trust. They’re simply enjoying your company.
Do Schnauzers bark a lot? Unfortunately, they do! They tend to bark at every slight movement and sometimes aimlessly. If you’re living in an apartment, the neighbors may not be too pleased with the noise.
Once they encounter a stranger, they observe and match your reaction. If you’re friendly to them, the dog will follow suit.
Take time to analyze the Miniature Schnauzer temperament before you settle for this breed. If not well prepared, they can get on your nerves and make you rethink your decision. The trick here is to keep them occupied physically and mentally. When bored, they get restless and can easily become destructive. Overall, Schnauzers are loyal, pleasant, smart, and make such adorable furry friends.
Living Needs
Do you need a large compound or a backyard to house this dog breed? Fortunately not. The little dogs will easily blend into your apartment lifestyle. Just give them enough attention and keep them busy. Barking could be an issue, though. If you have thin walls or cranky neighbors, you’re better off going for another breed. Luckily, training a Schnauzer dog not to bark is pretty easy.
Clever and friendly as they are, these animals make amazing living companions. They like to see you happy, and you can mold them into what you like. They bond well with children, adults, and other dogs. Supervise toddler interaction with these dogs, and indeed any other breed. As they grow up, teach your little ones how to handle animals.
Socializing a Miniature Schnauzer with cats can be tricky, as these dogs tend to see them as prey. Introduce them to cats while still puppies, so they learn to interact as peers. As for the weather, they’ll thrive in cold and warm climates alike.
Care
How to Groom a Miniature Schnauzer
A Mini Schnauzer has a double coat – a soft undercoat and a rough topcoat. The fur should be combed and brushed regularly. Fortunately, this is a low-shedding coat which makes it easier to take care of.
How often should the coat be trimmed? Preferably every 5-8 weeks. You can consider going for Schnauzer haircuts from expert groomers as most pet owners do. Give your pup a bath and clip the nails once a month or so. For more active dogs, you can increase the baths accordingly. The ears can also accumulate debris and excess wax, so clean them weekly.
How to Train a Miniature Schnauzer
What makes a dog easy to train? The Mini Schnauzer is equal parts friendly, fast, smart, and obedient. Ensure that the training process is fun and exciting. With such high intelligence, the dogs are easily worn out by repetitive tricks. Come up with new ideas.
Puppy training classes are a good option for dogs and owners alike. Starting them early improves the bonding process. These pups thrive in a wide range of dog sports, including obedience, speed, and racing.
How Much Exercise Does a Miniature Schnauzer Need?
Whether you live in the city or on a farm, these dogs will adjust. Consider fencing off a play area where they can play and run around for their dose of daily exercise.
With their average energy levels, moderate exercise is enough to keep them healthy. Schnauzers should always be kept on a leash when out in the open. Remember, they’re hunting dogs, and they’re likely to run after small animals.
Feeding
Which is the best food for a Miniature Schnauzer? Premium dry food. Daily intake should consist of ½ to 1 cup split into two meals. Even when they want more, this amount is enough for a healthy Miniature Schnauzer weight.
Health
Naturally, Mini Schnauzers have above-average levels of body fat. And they love their food. Even after you’ve fed them the recommended amount, their pitiful eyes will be begging for more. Resist the urge to keep on feeding them. They can easily get overweight, and that could be the beginning of various health problems. Other than regulating the amount of food, ensure that your dog has enough exercise every day.
Apart from weight-related diseases, Schnauzers are also prone to diabetes. Unlike in humans, diabetes in dogs has nothing to do with their weight or lifestyle. It means that the cells are no longer producing insulin. You can only keep the dog healthy by providing insulin. Consider getting your puppy screened for diabetes. The earlier you know about it, the easier it will be to manage.
Every dog breed is prone to particular health conditions, and the Schnauzer is no exception. Regular medical check-ups will help identify the onset of such conditions and help take the right measures.
Are you buying a Schnauzer puppy? Let the breeder show you the health clearance for both parents. You’ll know if the dogs have been tested for various health issues and found fit.
History
The “standard” Schnauzer as we know it today is one of Europe’s most popular purebred farm dogs. The tiny size was bred by German farmers so the Minis could take care of their barns more efficiently.
Classified as a rat dog, the mini Schnauzer is grouped with similar terrier breeds as rat catchers. Unlike the AKC terriers, however, the Mini has no British roots. Most terrier breeds were developed by the British. There are a few exceptions, though. Namely, the Cesky terrier and the Rat terrier, which were cross-bred with existing British breeds.
The Schnauzer dog breed has a unique personality compared to other terriers. Most terriers have a liberal character. Take the Irish terrier known for its fierce temperament or the Scottish terrier famous for its independence. The Mini, on the other hand, is loving and obedient.
The present-day Schnauzer is no longer the hunter. Today he’s a lovely companion in many homes. He’s also a regular winner at dog shows. This dog remains the highest registered in AKC of all the Schnauzer breeds.
Fun Facts About the Miniature Schnauzer
- It is said that the Mini Schnauzer came to be by breeding a small Standard Schnauzer with Poodles and Affenpinschers. Minis have been recognized as a distinct breed since 1899.
- The name Schnauzer refers to the snout or nose. It comes from the German word ‘schnauze’, which refers to the tendency of these dogs to dig with their snout.